How Has GPS Technology Improved Our Lives?
Most people these days cannot imagine their drives without the help of their GPS devices. First available for cars back in the 90s, it is so easy to take this commodity for granted today. However, have you ever considered just how much GPS technology improved our lives—and not just in the sense that it made navigating unknown roads much easier? Here are some of the ways in which this invention has affected the world.
Easy navigation
Most people first associate GPS technology with navigation. And truthfully, this invention has improved navigating unfamiliar places much less of a hassle. Remember using maps and road signs to find your way to your vacation destination decades ago? If you do, no further explanation is necessary. Today, it’s virtually impossible to lose your way in an inhabited place if you have so much as your mobile phone at hand. You won’t ever miss your exit as your GPS will notify you well in time.
Help in agriculture
Did you know that agriculture also relies on GPS technology to a considerable degree? Precision agriculture uses GPS (in combination with GIS) for a great variety of processes in order to improve its yield. GPS helps farmers to collect accurate and real-time data and analyze it, which helps them manage their fields better, from pesticide and herbicide distribution to efficient fertilizing.
Air and water traffic
GPS was first developed with the aim of improving military navigation. This primary function of it is still present today as this technology plays a key role in all air and water traffic around the world. It is not difficult to imagine why GPS is crucial in marine navigation. The vast seas not only lack road signs but GPS can also be used for steering clear of dangerous weather conditions. Similarly, no air traffic could be conducted without GPS technology. It boosts the safety and helps the accuracy of every flight.
Improved logistics
With its massive contribution to efficient navigation, it is no wonder that GPS has changed the world of logistics as well. Not only has it become more trackable and better organized, thanks to fleet management systems, but the data collected can also be used to optimize the whole process. Companies can monitor their drivers, how long they have been on the road, what stops they have taken and for how long, how much fuel they have used, and so on. GPS both improves the safety of the drivers—their location will be available in case some problem arises—and the security of the freight.
Safer and better driving experience
We already mentioned that equipping your car with a GPS will make navigation a breeze. However, a GPS system has a number of other perks that will make your driving experience both safer and better. For instance, a GPS head up display can eliminate the distraction of constantly having to glance at your dashboard to stay within the speed limit. GPS systems will also alert you of traffic jams, roadworks, and other obstacles that could ruin your day, so they will save you from a lot of stress. You might even find shortcuts thanks to this smart device and arrive early and refreshed.
Keeping an eye on little ones
You don’t have to be on four wheels in order to leverage the perks of GPS systems. In fact, this technology can even help keep your loved ones safe. Today, there are many devices that are designed to keep parents in the know about their children’s whereabouts. These devices can save you a tremendous amount of worrying. Similarly, if you have elderly family members who are struggling with dementia, an ID bracelet can be a useful safety precaution. Finally, GPS can even help you in finding your pets, should they get lost. Chips and collars that use tracking technology will ensure that they find their way back to you eventually.
Free time and recreation
Finally, yet another way in which GPS technology has seamlessly found its way into our everyday habits and improved our lives is in our recreational habits. If you love to jog, run, fish, or any other similar outdoor activities, you have probably already turned to GPS systems to plan your route, find the best trail, or inform yourself in some other way more than once. GPS units are widely used by hikers in order to navigate the wilderness, too.
As you can see, GPS technology is more present in our everyday lives than you might have expected. From navigation to safety and security, it has a lot of functions we cannot imagine modern life without.
